Arsenal - Group
Arsenal - Group
Transfer news from Spain ties Arsenal to Como’s Nico Paz, but Real Madrid’s €80m buy-back clause could complicate any potential deal.
Real Madrid’s buy-back clause stands in the way
As reported by The Sun, Real Madrid hold an €80million buy-back option after Paz joined Como for good this summer. Madrid had an older option to sign him back for around €9million, but they let it expire. Como paid closer to €60million to gain full ownership, while Real secured a fresh path back to him for 2027. Real Madrid boss Jose Mourinho would have the final say on triggering that option next year. The Gunners are said to be planning a formal approach in January 2027, once that window arrives.
If Arsenal do move for Nico Paz, it would fit a wider pattern under Mikel Arteta. Arteta often signs young players who show real promise before they hit their peak years. His style as a passer would give Arteta another creative option to add to his midfield.
Nico Paz’s stats in the 2025-26 season at Como, as per FOTMOB:
Competition Appearances Goals Assists Chances created
Serie A 35 12 6 51
Coppa Italia 5 1 1 6
Nico Paz shines at Como under Cesc Fabregas
Despite months of transfer talk, Paz chose to stay in Italy for another full season. Real Madrid later said the choice came from the player himself, according to the club statement. Under former Chelsea and Arsenal man Cesc Fabregas, Paz has grown into a key player for the Italian football club.
His stats show steady growth over his two full seasons playing for Como so far. Across 35 league games in the 2024-25 season, Paz found the net six times and created eight assists. He then did even better last season, with 13 goals and seven assists from 40 more games. That growth explained why many big clubs across Europe chased him hard during the summer transfer saga.
Paz then made headlines this week, setting up two goals in a 4-1 Champions League win over RB Leipzig. His display on the night drew fresh comparisons to Lionel Messi from several pundits watching. No Argentine had managed two assists in a Champions League game that fast since 2008. Speaking after the game, Paz said he stayed at Como because he wanted nights exactly like that one.
Nico Paz plays as a number 10 but often drops deep to help build attacks from midfield. That habit lets Como control the ball more and create space for the wingers to run in behind.
ArsenalArsenal
Premier League move adds a new twist
A move to England would give Paz the chance to test himself in the Premier League. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta often signs young players known for close control and quick feet. He wants players who can adapt fast to a passing style built firmly around control. Paz’s close control and sharp range of passing suggest he could match that approach well.
His reading of the game and range of passing suit what Arteta wants from his midfield. That kind of skill is rare in a young player, which is why interest keeps growing. For now, Nico Paz stays at Como, and no deal has been signed by either side. Still, Arsenal’s interest and Real Madrid’s option leave his next move unresolved heading into 2027. Fans on both sides will simply have to wait and see how this transfer plays out.
Also Read: Gabriel Jesus completes Barcelona move after Arsenal exit
Also Read: Marli Salmon signs Arsenal deal after first-team breakthrough
Read More: Martin Zubimendi gets Real Madrid green light amid Arsenal exit